Caithness Broch Project highlighted in Europe

posted by Clyn Gallagher | April 22, 2016

The Caithness Broch Project has received a fundraising boost this week, with MEP Alyn Smith bringing the project directly to the European Commission to highlight their aim to build a full-size replica broch in Caithness.

In his letter to Commissioner Navracsics, Alyn cites the cultural, financial and educational potential that the Caithness Broch Project would have for both Caithness and Scotland as a whole.

Alyn said:

“Brochs are part of Scotland’s cultural heritage – you won’t find a broch anywhere else!

“It’s not just a heritage boost though. Anyone with even a passing knowledge of Caithness knows that the winding-down of Dounreay is leaving the area in urgent need of employment diversification.

“By running a living history visitor attraction, complete with drystone dyking workshops, archaeological tours, and school outreach programmes, the Caithness Broch Project would be creating jobs in the tourism and culture sectors.

“Caithness is an oft-overlooked part of the country, but it’s a historian’s paradise. From the Old Man of Wick, built when the kings of Norway ruled the county, to those Dunbeath paths once rambled by Neil M. Gunn, it’s a fine place indeed.

“That’s why I’ve outlined the project in glowing terms to the European Commission, asking for recommended areas of funding and giving it my full support.”

Kenneth McElroy of the Caithness Broch Project, added:

“We believe this project is so important for Caithness as, not only will it give the area a huge boost in terms of its heritage tourism – which ultimately benefits businesses and communities throughout the region – but will also help to instill pride in Caithness by promoting a key component of our identity and shared heritage.”

Caithness, Sutherland and Ross MSP Gail Ross said:

“I’m a strong supporter of the Caithness Broch Project, and heartily applaud the work they’ve been doing in establishing working relationships with other archaeological groups throughout Scotland.

“We have a rich cultural seam in Caithness, and I look forward to working with Alyn and Kenny to make the Caithness Broch Project one of the gems of the Scottish heritage scene.”